Timeline: Major Events in the Civil War

Nov 6, 1860

Lincoln Gets Elected for President

Abraham Lincoln won the presidential election on November 6th of 1860. This made him America’s 16th president

Dec 20, 1860

South Carolina Secedes

On December 20, 1860, the state of South Carolina seceded from the union after the election of Abraham Lincoln because they believed that Lincoln would end slavery. South Carolina wanted to secede so that they could make a country where slavery was legal.

Feb 8, 1861

Confederation Formed

According to history.com, “By 1860, the majority of the slave states were publicly threatening if the Republicans, the anti-slavery party, won the presidency. Following Republican Abraham Lincoln’s victory over the divided Democratic Party in November 1860, South Carolina immediately initiated secession proceedings. Within six weeks, five more Southern states had followed South Carolina’s lead.”

Apr 12, 1861

Civil War Begins

The Civil War started at about 4:30 am on April 12, 1861

Jul 21, 1861

First Battle of Bull Run

The First Battle of Bull Run, AKA the Battle of Manassas, marked the first major land battle of the American Civil War. Fought on July 21st 1861, the battle began when approximately 35,000 union troops marched from Washington D.C. to strike a Confederate Force of about 20,000 along a small river known as Bull Run.